3 hrs well spent

exercise, and new (old) tires on the bike.

Note to everyone: it takes about 3 hours to do, and rear tires are hella harder than fronts.



So, I'm tired. Real tired. My legs and arms are tired. I'm mentally tired. I did scratch my rims a bit, but my rear less than my front, and...well...they are just wheels.

The front was much easier than the rear. I think they took similar amounts of time due to the fact that I did the front first, but the rear takes significantly more effort to do all the way around.

Also, the axles make good balancing stands, or at least, I think they do.

I'm going to take the pickup tomorrow to work, and then go for a test ride after work tomorrow to spin them up pretty good and check how balanced they really are. The back, I'm pretty sure about, the front didn't spin as freely, but was still pretty free, so we'll see.

Also, it cost me about $2.50 for the valve core tool, and $40 for the tire irons. Plus, I got the wheel weights for free from the local shop, and then another $3 for the duct tape to make sure my weights don't go anywhere.

Any local shop would have charged at least $20/wheel, and I wouldn't have gotten the exercise. Plus, I really like doing things myself. If my tires are out of balance, I'll just pull them off and take them down to get balanced, no big deal. Plus, this way, I will be able to change my tires anytime I want without waiting (probably would wait less than 3 hours to get them done by a pro....but still....I can do it on a Sunday, so shove it Cyclebarn!)

So, all in all, yes, I'm glad I did it. I would do it again. I will do it again...with my next set of take offs...or if I wear out my stock tires...or if some friend needs a tire changed and can't wait for a shop to be open...you know...



But, time to go do the dishes. Gotta have a clean kitchen for out little dinner party tonight.